What sports betting ruling means for gamblers

SportsPulse: Supreme Court reporter Richard Wolf breaks down the SCOTUS ruling on sports betting in the United States, and what it could mean for the future of gambling in professional and college sports.USA TODAY Sports

The Supreme Court declared unconstitutional a law that forced states to keep sports gambling bans.(Photo: Getty Images)

With states such as New Jersey potentially open to take bets in time for the NBA Finals at the end of the month, here is what the ruling could mean.

Removing ‘shadiness’ and stigma

Sports gambling has always existed. According to the American Gaming Association, at least $150 billion a year is wagered on sports, 97% of which is bet illegally through such outlets as bookies, off-shore websites and other establishments — known as sports books — that take bets on events and pay out winnings.